Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

News Briefs for the week of June 6, 2025

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop confers confirmation on prison inmates

Bishop Frank J. Dewane conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation upon four inmates in the Diocese of Venice in June 2025. Three were confirmed at Charlotte Correctional Institute in Punta Gorda on June 1, and one at the Hardee Correction Institute in Bowling Green on June 2. When celebrating the Mass for the incarcerated, Bishop Dewane emphasized that he is bringing the forgiveness, mercy, compassion, peace, love and joy of the Lord to others and took time to speak with the inmates after the Mass. Each year, the Bishop celebrates Mass for inmates at different facilities throughout the 10-county Diocese, and has conferred the Sacraments of Confirmation, First Communion and Baptism for dozens of inmates since 2006. The Diocesan Prison Ministry provides a variety of services, including Bible study, TV Mass, religious education and assistance with receiving the Sacraments. Within its boundaries, the Diocese has five state prisons, 10 county jails and one civil commitment program. There are approximately 15,000 incarcerated within the Diocese; meaning the need for priests and volunteers is great. If you are interested in learning more about the Diocesan Prison Ministry, please contact Bob Hiniker at hinbob5@hotmail.com or Joe Mallof at mallofjt@comcast.net.

Two schools join Knights in helping migrant farm workers

St. Mary Academy and St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota worked together on a service project and collected 250 long sleeve shirts for Falkner Farm migrant workers in Myakka. These shirts are vital in protecting workers from pesticides getting on their skin. The schools worked with Knights of Columbus Holy Cross Council 7414 of Palmetto, ensuring the success of the collection drive. The school donations were combined with donations from Holy Cross Parish and other Knights councils and totaled more than 1,000 long sleeve shirts.

Theology on Tap June 19 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The next gathering is June 19 and will feature a presentation from Father Christian Chami, Parochial Vicar at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota with the topic: “St. Charbel: Lessons in silence, faith and obedience.” The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m., with the presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith beginning at 8 p.m. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions.

Ordination to the Priesthood July 12

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites the faithful to the Ordination to the Priesthood of Transitional Deacons Joseph Doherty, Jacob Gwynn and Pat Long. The Ordination will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. All are welcome and encouraged to attend this important event in the lives of Deacons Joseph, Jacob and Pat as well as the Diocese of Venice. A reception will follow. The Ordination will also be livestreamed.

Respect Life Volunteers Needed!

Do you have a passion for life? The Diocese of Venice needs you! We are looking for volunteers and leaders interested in becoming involved in local respect life activities with their Parish. Many new families are moving to Southwest Florida, and we need your help! It’s very rewarding work. For those living in the Palmetto or Parrish area, your assistance is especially needed. To get involved, please contact Tavia Ames, ames@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-441-1101.

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

The 2025 Ave Maria University “Proclaim” Youth Conference is July 11-13. The theme for the Conference is “But as for you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God” (Luke 9:60). The Conference will include talks from Sister Maria Jose Socias, SCTJM, Michael Gormley, Mari Pablo, and Father Joseph Lugalambi. Music will be by Epic Music Ministries. The Conference will include Mass, Adoration, praise and worship, lodging, meals, t-shirts, a pizza night, and more. Registration is $195. per person. For more information or to register, please visit aveconferences.com/.

Support After Abortion help available

Are you or someone you know struggling because of a past abortion? You are not alone. Know that healing retreats and support are available for anyone who has experienced an abortion, including mothers, fathers and other family members who have been hurt. For help, or to learn more about the Diocese of Venice support after abortion program, Project Rachel, simply call or text 941-412-5860, or email project.rachel@diocese, in either English or Spanish. All contacts are confidential.

Diocese preparing for 2025 Hurricane Season

Posted on May 30, 2025May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Helene and Milton have been added to the list of names of past hurricanes that will conjure up memories of wind, rain, storm surge, power outages and destruction in Southwest Florida.

Time and effort has enabled recovery for some from these devastating storms, but many are still trying to pick up the pieces of their lives while the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season looms large.

NOAA satellite image of Hurricane Milton coming ashore in Sarasota County on Oct. 9, 2024.

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season in Florida runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. With a history of these storms producing destruction in the region; just the mention of Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton (2024), Hurricane Ian (2022), Hurricane Irma (2017), or Hurricane Charley (2004), can bring back dreadful memories.

The Diocese of Venice, and many families, are still recovering from Helene and Milton, as well as Hurricane Ian nearly three years after the storm has passed. However, Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the Diocese of Venice is well-prepared for the coming season.

“The catastrophic impacts of back-to-back hurricanes in 2024, and Ian in 2022, are still fresh in the minds of those who witnessed not only the loss of lives but also the devastating destruction of buildings and livelihoods,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said. “As a Diocese we do our best to prepare, but it is also important for us to pray for protection from future storms, and also for the people who continue to recover from previous disasters. As the new Atlantic Hurricane Season arrives, let us all ask God for protection and safety.”

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., is still on the ground helping families recover from Helene and Milton, as well as Ian, stated Christopher M. Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice.

“At Catholic Charities, we’re still walking alongside families who were hit hard by last year’s hurricanes,” Root said. “The headlines may have moved on, but for many, recovery is still happening day by day. We haven’t stopped helping, and we’re also getting ready in case another storm comes our way this season. With support from Catholic Charities USA and a trained disaster response team on the ground in the Diocese of Venice, we’re doing everything we can to be prepared. Whether we’re helping someone rebuild after the last storm or responding to a new one, Catholic Charities is here with compassion, faith, and a real desire to serve.”

Experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a range of 13-19 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), slightly above the seasonal average. This follows the 2024 season which produced 18 named storms, including Hurricanes Debby (Aug. 6-7), Helene (Sept. 26), and Milton (Oct. 9), each of which brought their own misery of wind and rain. Helene, which paralleled the coast, and Milton, whose eye went over Siesta Key, both brought unprecedented storm surges to the barrier islands from Naples in the south through Palmetto to the north. NOAA stated that numerous factors were considered in the forecast, including warmer than average ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation, NOAA reported.

Weather forecasters and emergency management officials stress that each tropical system is different, explaining that just because you survived Debby, Helene, Milton, Ian, Irma or Charley, without any damage doesn’t mean the next storm, whether it is a tropical storm or major hurricane, couldn’t destroy everything around you.

With many people no longer watching local news, NOAA officials also stress the need for everyone to have access to reliable local weather reports to avoid confusion when a storm approaches. This can be accessed through the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center, local news outlets or other trustworthy weather sources.

While keeping a wary eye on the weather forecast is important, being prepared before storms approach is just as vital. Preparedness means many things, but a key part is simply knowing where you live in relationship to evacuation zones in your city or county. Also, knowing how well constructed a home is can also impact preparations and planning in the event an evacuation is ordered. Also, as many learned during Helene and Milton, power could be out for days, or weeks, following a storm, and the decision must also be made if one wants to stay under those conditions.

The names for this season, provided by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), include Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin and others. The list of 21 names is repeated every six years. The only time that there is a change is if a storm is so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be inappropriate for obvious reasons of sensitivity (Helene, Milton, Ian, Irma, Charley, Katrina, etc.).

If a storm comes

Should disaster strike, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, will be at the forefront in preparing and responding. Catholic Charities will send a team to the epicenter of the disaster and then coordinate to set up relief centers — called PODs, which stands for Points-Of-Distribution – where the need is greatest. These centers – often located at Parishes or next to Catholic Charities offices – will be sites where water, clothing, food and other disaster relief assistance can be distributed. PODs were established at multiple locations following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with truckloads of water, food and cleaning supplies distributed to needy families.

One way people help after a storm is through the Catholic Charities Disaster Rebound Bucket program. These buckets are filled with practical supplies that give families a head start on cleanup and recovery. If you visit CCDOV | Disaster Recovery, you’ll find a short video that shows how the buckets work and an Amazon Wish List for anyone who wants to donate items directly.

As noted earlier, the Diocese of Venice is experienced in responding to these storms. Therefore, each Parish, Catholic school and other entities have hurricane preparedness plans which assist in preparation before a storm and recovery afterwards.

NOAA and emergency management officials remind everyone that taking a few steps now can prevent panic and confusion if a storm were to threaten the area. To track and learn more about hurricanes, visit www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

Being prepared

Emergency management officials emphasize that having an emergency preparedness plan will help lessen the stress on individuals when, inevitably, a new tropical system forms and threatens the region. Key things like knowing your evacuation zone, knowing if your home can withstand forecasted winds, and having emergency supplies and documents ready ahead of time, are key actions to take ahead of the season.

First, officials recommend each family have a Disaster Supply Kit, which should have a minimum of enough water and food to last three to seven days. That means one gallon of water per person/per day, plus enough non-perishable food that does not require electricity to prepare and consume safely. Those who care for infants or the elderly must plan for what specialty items will be needed.

Other key items for a Disaster Supply Kit include clothing (rain gear and sturdy shoes), blankets/pillows, first aid kit, all medicines and prescription drugs, toiletries, flashlights, battery-operated radio, cash, important documents in a waterproof container, and any items for your pets.

If a storm were to strike, getting basic supplies will be a challenge. The Federal Emergency Management Agency stresses that in the aftermath of a major disaster, you should expect to be on your own for at least three days, if not longer, before substantial state and federal resources can be expected. If you have a Disaster Supply Kit that went unused in 2024, inspect it to ensure all items are fresh and the batteries are still good.

Those who have medical or transportation issues must contact their city/county Emergency Management Office (the number is available online or you can dial the non-emergency 511), to register and to potentially be relocated to a shelter if a storm threatens. This registration must be done annually.

Another key action is to make sure any insurance is up-to-date, and photographs are taken of all valuables before the storm. Keep in mind that hurricane and flood insurance will take a minimum of 30 days to go into effect.

Please pray for the safety of all during the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Posted on May 30, 2025May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

As we enter the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season (June 1 to Nov. 30), a prayer is presented here by which one asks God for protection and safety from the storms that often threaten Southwest Florida. We all remember the devastating effect of Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton and of the recovery which is still ongoing. Everyone in the Diocese of Venice knows and understands the power of these storms and the suffering which follows in their wake. Please pray for safety.

Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season

NOAA radar image of the eye of Hurricane Milton coming ashore in Sarasota County on Oct. 9, 2024.

O God, Master of this passing world,

hear the humble voices of your children.

The Sea of Galilee obeyed Your order

and returned to its former quietude.

You are still the Master of land and sea.

We live in the shadow of a danger over which we have no control:

the Gulf, like a provoked and angry giant,

can awake from its seeming lethargy, overstep its conventional boundaries,

invade our land, and spread chaos and disaster.

During this hurricane season we turn to You, O loving Father.

Spare us from past tragedies whose memories are still so vivid

and whose wounds seem to refuse to heal with passing of time.

O Virgin, Star of the Sea, Our beloved Mother, we ask you

to plead with your Son on our behalf,

so that spared from the calamities common to this area

and animated with a true spirit of gratitude,

we will walk in the footsteps of your Divine Son

to reach the heavenly Jerusalem,

where a stormless eternity awaits us. Amen.

Oración para la temporada de huracanes

O Dios, Señor de este mundo pasajero,

escucha la humilde voz de tus hijos.

El Mar de Galilea obedeció Tu orden

y volvió a su anterior quietud.

Tu todavía eres el Señor de tierra y mar.

Vivimos en la sombra del peligro sobre el cual no tenemos control;

el Golfo, como un violento gigante, puede despertar de su aparente letargo,

sobrepasar sus límites, invadir nuestra tierra y sembrar caos y desastre.

Durante esta temporada de huracanes acudimos a Ti, O Padre Misericordioso.

Líbranos de tragedias como las pasadas que están tan vivas en nuestra

memoria y cuyas heridas rehúsan ser curadas con el paso del tiempo.

O Virgen, Estrella del Mar, nuestra amada Madre, te pedimos

que intercedas ante tu Hijo por nosotros,

para que nos libre de las calamidades comunes a esta área,

y animados con un verdadero espíritu de gratitude

caminemos en los pasos de tu Divino Hijo

para llegar a la Jerusalén Celestial,

donde una eternidad sin tormentas nos espera. Amen.

Permanent Diaconate candidates make oath ahead of Ordination May 31 in Naples

Posted on May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Eleven Permanent Diaconate candidates took the Oath of Fidelity and gave a Profession of Faith on May 27, 2025, the final hurdle before the group will be ordained as Permanent Deacons at 10 a.m., May 31, 2025, at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over a Mass and the ceremony at Our Lady of Perpetual Retreat Center in Venice where the men were on a 5-day canonical ordination retreat. The Bishop said that the candidates should find comfort in the Holy Spirit as their ordination approaches and in their continuing service to the Church.

During the Oath, the candidates recited the Profession of Faith for all to hear. The candidates then read the “Oath of Fidelity” and promised to “adhere to the teachings, which either the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate when they exercise authentic magisterium.” The men and the Bishop then signed the necessary documents.

The Bishop was joined by Deacon J. Robert Gaitens, Director of Diaconate Formation; and Deacon Roberto Landron, Associate Director of Diaconate Formation.

The Permanent Diaconate candidates have received training in theology, canon law and pastoral ministry, a discernment and study process that has taken five years.

As part of their formation process, the men were admitted by Bishop Dewane as acolytes in 2024 to assist priests and other Permanent Deacons on the altar during Mass. Prior to that, they were admitted as candidates when they publicly declared their intention of becoming Deacons and the Bishop accepted them. They were also instituted as lectors so they could proclaim the Gospel.

The mission of a Permanent Deacon in the Church is to: serve as a minister of charity, address the needs of others and strive to meet those needs; serve as ministers of the Word, when they proclaim the Gospel, preaching and teaching; serve as ministers of the Sacrament of Baptism; witness marriages; conduct wake and graveside services; and lead the faithful in prayer.

The candidates for Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate on May 31, 2025, are: Richard E. Dahn, St. Agnes Parish; Richard A. Hellenbrand, St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral; Thomas A. Januszka, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish; Stephen L. Jendrysik, Incarnation Parish, Sarasota; James N. Jenkins, St. William Parish, Naples; Ramon R. Kanacheril, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Fort Myers; Mark A. Osterhaus, St. Agnes Parish; Orlando A. Rubiano, St. Vincent de Paul Parish; Jeff Tenbarge, St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples, John-William M. Trainer III, St. Peter the Apostle Parish; and Edward J. Watson, Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria.

All are invited and encouraged to attend the Ordination of these men to the Permanent Diaconate. The Ordination will also be livestreamed, and can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/StAgnesNaples, and stagnesnaples.org.

2025 Totus Tuus summer program to be featured at 18 Parishes

Posted on May 30, 2025May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The successful Totus Tuus summer catechetical Parish program will soon be taking place at a Parish near you.

The final week of May saw 15 missionaries undergo intensive training and preparation as the first three Parish camps start June 1, 2025. Ultimately, there will be seven separate weeks with a total18 Parishes serving as weekly hosts through July 25. More than 1,000 children and teens will be impacted by this special outreach.

Totus Tuus – which means “totally yours” – is a one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, and aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane encouraged the pilot program be brought to the Diocese in 2022 to great success, with expansions in 2023 to 11 host Parishes, 12 for 2024, and now 18 for 2025. During past visits to Totus Tuus camps, Bishop Dewane has been impressed by the response each child had to the uplifting program. “In each classroom everyone was so excited and alive about their love of the Lord!”

Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass for the Totus Tuus missionaries on May 28, while they were going through their training at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. He encouraged the young missionaries to call upon the Holy Spirit to guide them through the summer and reminded them of the important role they will have for the boys and girls they encounter this summer.

This training focused on the spiritual aspect of the Totus Tuus program, including daily prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Mass. Other components of the training covered the fundamentals of teaching young children and youth, as well as the fun aspects of the camp including the songs and dances that everyone will learn.

The week-long camps (9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday) are divided into two segments, with the day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, and an evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12.

The younger children participate in several classes each day, attend daily Mass, learn the parts and liturgical music of Mass, and participate in games, skits, songs, recess and prayer. The older students participate in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditations, prayer and fellowship.

Most importantly, Totus Tuus works to complement what parents teach their children in matters of their faith. This is something Bishop Dewane has stressed since the program had its trial run in the Diocese in 2022.

The 2025 Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus Missionaries range in age from 18 to 27, and two are returning for a second year: Jesse Gomez, a Diocesan Seminarian, and Jesenia Cortes who is from St. James Parish and Santigo Mission in Lake Placid. A second seminarian, Tam Tran will also be a missionary this year.

Cortes looks forward to making a connection with the children again. “I’m so excited to be back. Last summer, serving as Team Leader, gave me the chance to witness God’s goodness and His personal call to holiness in each child and teen we met. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing His love and growing in faith together.”

The following is a list of host Parishes:

June 1-6 – St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish; St. Finbar Parish, Naples; San Pedro Parish, North Port;
June 8-13 – St. Paul Parish, Arcadia; Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton; St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral;
June 15-20 – St. Agnes Parish, Naples;
June 22-27 – Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria; St. Jude Parish, Sarasota;
July 6-11 – St. Cecilia Parish, Fort Myers; Our Lady of Light Parish, Fort Myers; St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers; St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota;
July 13-18 – St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton; Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle;
July 20-25 – Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch; St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples.

Please pray for the success of the Totus Tuus summer program, the campers, and the missionaries.

Camp registration information

Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/.

Faith is fun! Register your children through the hosting Parish! For more information, or with questions, visit Totus Tuus 2025 – Diocese of Venice. You can also contact Andres Prias, prias@dioceseofvenice.org or Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Mooney 2025 seniors graduate

Posted on May 30, 2025May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School held its commencement exercises for 158 graduating seniors on May 23, 2025, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center on the Sarasota bayfront.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for the graduating class on May 20, 2025, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Bishop Dewane thanked the parents for entrusting Cardinal Mooney with the education of their children. He also praised the graduates for their academic achievement, adding that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave the Cardinal Mooney community to points beyond.

New at graduation this year was the presentation of the first Cardinal Mooney Outstanding Senior Award, presented by Principal Ben Hopper to Sy’monique Simon and Mark Yencik. These two students were selected because they demonstrate the school’s ideals of religious and moral responsibility, personal and social responsibility, intellectual achievement, and a sense of purpose and direction, among other desirable traits and qualities. Their pictures and distinct honor will be placed in the school lobby.

The Cardinal Mooney graduating seniors performed approximately 20,000 community service hours, and 94 percent are going directly to college. They earned nearly $10.5 million in scholarship offers, a number that does not include Florida Bright Future Scholarships. Several dozen will be attending Catholic universities, and one will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. Other graduates will serve in the military, work or have a gap year.

Porter Strand was the class Valedictorian and Sy’monique Simon was Salutatorian. Father Alex Pince, Cardinal Mooney Chaplain, offered the invocation, while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered the Final Blessing.

News briefs for the week of May 30, 2025

Posted on May 30, 2025 by Bob Reddy

St. Andrew student a national contest winner

St. Andrew Catholic School fifth-grader Destiny Campos has been recognized as a Studio 3:16 contest winner. The Cape Coral student was chosen from 2,000 student applications nationwide. Studio 3:16, a faith-based program that shares the Gospel through storytelling, music, and humor, encouraged students to draw and write about a day spent with co-founder Shevin McCullough. Destiny’s story, inspired by John 1:5 – “The light shines in the darkness” – shared a powerful message about cheating, forgiveness, and shining the light of Jesus to others. Her story deeply moved the judges and earned her class a pizza party and a live Zoom with Shevin himself!

School choir performs sacred music concert in Bradenton

The student choir at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton performed a sacred music concert on May 25, 2025. The “Choir Concert – Ode to Joy” featured the full school choir, the “Joy Singers,” and groups of 3rd and 4th grade students, 5th-8th grade students, and 8th grade singers. This included several singers performing solos and duets. The choir was accompanied by string and percussion musicians. Music teacher Jody Kienzler organized the concert, which was dedicated to outgoing Principal Deborah Suddarth, who has taken a position as Associate Superintendent for Catholic Schools in the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

Theology on Tap June 19 in Sarasota

Ordination to the Priesthood July 12

Respect Life Volunteers Needed!

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

Support After Abortion help available

Bishop celebrates Mass to pray for pontificate of Pope Leo XIV

Posted on May 23, 2025May 23, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The election of Pope Leo XIV is a defining moment in the life of the Catholic Church in the United States bringing a new energy and interest in the faith, Bishop Frank J. Dewane stated during a Mass in honor of the new Holy Father on May 20, 2025, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

“Pope Leo provides the faithful with a renewed hope, knowing that we have a Holy Father who is from our own shores – one who knows us from within and from without,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is hard to overstate the opportunity and the challenges the Holy Father will face. While Pope Leo faces these challenges, he seems to have embraced his new role, setting his agenda with a spirit of joy.”

The Bishop said an election of a new Pope offers the opportunity to reflect on the role of the Successor of St. Peter, “to confirm us in faith and be at the center of drawing us ever deeper into that faith. At his inauguration, Pope Leo’s first great desire was for a united Church. We need to hear his call – with him the shepherd, and we the sheep who follow.”

In his early public comments, Pope Leo has addressed many important issues facing the Church and the world. Bishop Dewane praised the Holy Father for invoking Pope Leo XIII who brought the Church into the modern world during the Industrial Revolution, creating and bringing together the social doctrine of the Church.

“We need good guides as we move through life as the world does not place value on truth,” Bishop explained. “We’ve heard the Holy Father already address a variety of issues that need to become more developed by men and women of Faith.”

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has chosen the papal name Leo XIV, appears on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican May 8, 2025, following his election during the conclave. He is the first American pope in history. (OSV News photo/Guglielmo Mangiapane, Reuters)

Bishop Dewane then quoted Pope Leo, who reminded us that, “we are on a journey together. The gloom of the world will pass away. It is life with the Almighty God that we seek. We pray that the Lord will lead us to make clearer the arrival of the new heaven and the new earth.”

While the May 20 Mass intentions were to pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Dewane reminded the faithful that the Holy Father is prayed for at every Catholic Mass, and that we must always remember the Holy Father in our prayers. “He needs our prayers and our support,” Bishop Dewane said.

“Let us pray that the Holy Spirit will watch over, will guide, will strengthen, will inspire, and will grace our new Holy Father with the courage he needs to live out his new calling,” Bishop Dewane said. “We also pray that he is given the grace that he needs to be that Shepherd that was elected by the Cardinals, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Let us keep Pope Leo in our prayers as he prays for all of us.”

Prayer for Pope Leo XIV (Roman Missal)

O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful, look favorably on your servant Leo XIV, whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd; grant, we pray, that by word and example he may be of service to those over whom he presides so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care, he may come to everlasting life. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

2025 graduations held at Verot and Neumann Catholic high schools

Posted on May 23, 2025May 23, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers and St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples held their commencement exercises in mid-May.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for each of the schools, with the St. John Neumann Mass celebrated May 15, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples, and the Bishop Verot Mass on May 16, at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers.

Bishop Dewane first thanked the parents and guardians for entrusting their children to a Diocesan Catholic high school for four years of their education, acknowledging that they made a personal sacrifice to do so. The Bishop then congratulated the graduates for their own accomplishments, both academically and athletically, but reminded them that he was more interested in how they grew spiritually; that is in developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“It is my prayer that you have learned the message of Jesus Christ, and that it is woven into who you are as men and women, made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “As you strive to succeed in your own endeavors, do so with the presence of the Holy Spirit as that additional assistance in your life. It is faith that allows us to do more than we can do alone. Trust your life to God, while giving thanks for the gifts you have been given.”

The Neumann commencement exercises included 79 graduates receiving their diplomas. The class, which accumulated more than 10,000 service hours, also earned $11.5 million in scholarship offers and nearly all are going off to college. The Valedictorian was Morgan Thayer Zolna and Salutatorian was Ariana Petrovic. The guest speaker was Dr. Emily Howell, a professor at Ave Maria University. One graduate will be attending a military service academy.

The Bishop Verot commencement, with 219 graduates, included 33 Summa Cum Laude students. There are no valedictorian or salutatorian recognized during graduation, Alexander Price provided the introductory address, while Sophia Smith offered the commencement address. The class earned more than $15 million in scholarship offers and completed more than 21,000 service hours. One graduate will be attending a military service academy.

The Baccalaureate Masses and Commencement Exercises for Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota and Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria are scheduled for later in May.

The graduating Class of 2025 went through a disrupted freshman year with the Covid-19 pandemic when masks and social distancing were still in full effect. They also dealt with the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ian in 2022 as well as subsequent storms in 2024. Please pray for all the new graduates!

2025 Catholic Scouting Awards presented

Posted on May 23, 2025May 23, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Girls and boys from throughout the Diocese of Venice participated in Mass on May 18, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, wearing the uniforms of their Scout troops.

Designated as “Scouting Sunday,” the Mass, which fell on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, was followed by an award ceremony in the Parish Hall to celebrate and recognize the girls and boys who commit themselves to scouting while remaining true to the Faith. Members of the Scouting America and American Heritage Girls (AHG) participated in the ceremony.

During a reception following Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presented dozens of Scouting Religious Awards, with some Scouts receiving multiple honors.

Bishop Dewane told the Scouts that it is his prayer that the awards will continually give them encouragement to grow in their relationship with the Lord.

“Scouting programs provide young people with invaluable experiences that help build strong moral character, encourage community service, and promote care for creation,” Bishop Dewane said. “These are important values in shaping individuals ready to serve the common good. Catholic Scouting nurtures these values through a faith-centered lens.”

The awards earned from the National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) Religious Activities Awards included: Ad Altare Emblem, Bible Belles Award, Modern Saints Series, Rosary Series, Marian Series, Faith Series, American Saints Series, and International Series. Diocesan Scout Awards included: Boy Jesus, Child of God, Kristallnacht, Yom Hashoah, Mother Mary, and Our Lady. The National Committee Boy Scout Awards included: Light of Christ, Parvuli Dei, and St. John the Baptist. American Heritage Girls Scouting Awards included: Tenderheart Faith, Explorer Faith, and Pioneer Faith, and Patriot Faith.

Each award requires the Scout to participate in different activities which help increase their Faith. The awards become more difficult to earn as the Scout advances.

Additional awards were presented during the ceremony to adult Scouting leaders.

Teresa Mitchell, AHG FL1203, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers, received the Companions on the Journey, the highest recognition from the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministers for a Diocese to confer on adults working in youth ministry.
Melissa Rivero, AHG FL 1203, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers, was given the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award, a national recognition for three or more years of service to Catholic girls in the American Heritage Girls.
Kristen Tucker, AHG FL 1203, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers, the St. Anne Medal, received the highest medal for adults in the American Heritage Girls, for those with seven or more years of service who have contributed significantly to the spiritual development of Catholic girls in the program.
Megan Van Wart, Scouting America Troop 201G, St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples, earned the Eucharistic Revival Award, with rockers, for work on this special national award during the three-year Revival.

Three adults earned the Light of the World Pin, a national honor presented to adults as expression of appreciation and gratitude from the Diocese for their work with Catholic Scouting. The honorees were: Tracey Bellucci, AHG FL1029, Ave Maria; Kim Marie, Scouting America Troop 157, St. Maximilian Kolbe; and Megan Van Wart, Scouting America Troop 2001G, St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples.

Five adults were also honored with the Bronze Pelican Award, which recognizes an adult’s unique and outstanding contributions to the spiritual development of Catholic youth. Bronze symbolizes spiritual strength, while the pelican is an early Christian symbol for self-sacrifice. Those honored were Dr. Monica Woodward, Scouting America Troop 2001 and Pack 226 of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples; Alicia Ritter, Scouting America Troop 2001G and AHG FL1029, of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria; and three from Scouting American Pack 1226, of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish in Parrish, Ian Fulton, Valerie Fulton, and Jim Pfieffer.

In addition to these awards, Connie Kantor, a member of the Diocesan Committee on Scouting, National Catholic Committee member, and Scouting America Crew 8564, Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda, was presented the St. Geroge Medal. This medal is awarded by nomination to those who have made significant contribution to Catholic Scouting in the Diocese for at least 5-10 years. Kantor has volunteered in Catholic Scouting on both the Diocesan and national level for more than 13 years. She was also recognized at the NCCS national meeting in April with the Jerusalem Cross for her work on the Scout’s Guide to Religious Relics, and the Christus Vivit Award for collaborating with five other Catholic Women Scouters to establish and endow a new NCCS scholarship named for St. Katharine Drexel.

Recognizing the hard work and commitment that the Scouts from throughout the Diocese of Venice make to earn the Catholic Religious Awards, Bishop Dewane congratulated each of the award recipients and all Scouts.

A special award was given to Bonnie Paquette in memory of her husband, Bob Paquette, who served for many years as Diocesan Scouting Awards Coordinator among other roles. Bob Paquette passed away in August 2024.

Also participating in the ceremony was Jim Gontis, Diocesan Director of Evangelization, and Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Outreach.